VIDEO: Caps assist assassin Backstrom becomes sniper

Nicklas Backstrom has 23 goals and 64 points in 56 games this season. (Photo by Greg Fiume/Getty Images)

2010-02-04 13:55:00

Hockey has been a major part of Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom’s life since the day he was born. His father, Anders, played professional hockey for Brynas of the Swedish Elite League and was drafted 203rd overall by the New York Rangers in 1980.

Nicklas followed his father’s footsteps when he played his first professional hockey game with Brynas, but that’s where their career similarities end. While his father never made the jump to the NHL Backstrom, who was selected fourth overall by the Caps in 2006, has established himself as a premiere center in the league.

The native of Gavle, Sweden has 23 goals and 64 points in 56 games this season and has continued his impressive ironman streak. Through his first three years in the league, Backstrom has played in every game for the Capitals.

Ken Campbell caught up with durable and dynamic Swede in the midst of the Caps' historic win streak.